Ayurveda: The answer to Psoriasis

Psoriasis

Psoriasis can be quite debilitating to a sufferer whom during a flare up will struggle with red scaly patches of skin which can be itchy and uncomfortable, although these can be localised they can also affect larger areas or even the whole body. Sufferers can feel embarrassed or even depressed along with the irritation. Short term relief is offered by steroids but these can have adverse effects on the body so finding relief elsewhere is sought after. Could Ayurveda offer a long term solution?

In Psoriasis the body’s immune system causes healthy cells to grow rapidly causing a build up of skin layers which the body can’t shed fast enough, the result is itchy red patches. Psoriasis treatment in Ayurveda will focus on rebalancing the body and eliminating unhealthy habits. Firstly the internal body is cleansed with a Panchkarma detoxifying treatment which restores the doshas, herbal medicine is given by mouth and an herbal paste is applied to the problem areas. Relief is seen quickly, treatment will last for between a week and a month, the oral Ayurvedic medicine may be taken for a few months.

Stress can be a major cause in psoriasis flare ups so management of this is very important in getting the best results from this treatment. Using ancient techniques such as those practiced in Kerala Ayurveda, practitioners recommend daily yoga and meditation to combat daily stresses. Those visiting an Ayurvedic hospital in Kerala will be encouraged to participate daily in a yoga regime, along with a clean healthy diet to complement their treatment and this is seen to give greater relief for sufferers. A similar programme would also benefit psoriasis sufferers elsewhere. The key benefit to psoriasis treatment in Ayurveda is that long lasting relief can be achieved, something which is seldom found elsewhere.